Rangers Activate Dunning from IL, Boost Arlington Rotation

ARLINGTON, Texas — The Texas Rangers activated veteran right-hander Dane Dunning from the 15-day injured list on Thursday, bolstering their rotation for an upcoming series at Globe Life Field. Dunning, 29, had been sidelined since July 5 — retroactive to July 4 — with right shoulder soreness, his second shoulder issue this season after missing time in May. In two rehab outings with Double-A Frisco and Triple-A Round Rock, he surrendered just one hit while striking out three over five scoreless innings.

Dunning carries a 4-7 record with a 4.71 ERA in 15 appearances, including 12 starts, for Texas this season. Over five MLB seasons with the Rangers and Chicago White Sox, he owns a 27-32 mark and 4.23 ERA across 113 games (99 starts). To make room, the Rangers optioned right-hander Gerson Garabito, who posted a 1.35 ERA in four appearances, to Triple-A Round Rock.

The activation provides timely relief for a Rangers staff battered by injuries. Texas remains without starters Nathan Eovaldi (IL, recent bullpen session), and long-term absences on the 60-day IL: Max Scherzer, Jacob deGrom and Tyler Mahle. Recent moves included placing relievers Luis Curvelo (right biceps strain) and Chris Martin (right shoulder impingement) on the 15-day IL, prompting call-ups of Cal Quantrill and Gavin Collyer from Round Rock, while transferring Cody Bradford to the 60-day IL and designating Marc Church for assignment.

As the Rangers host a key homestand in Arlington, Dunning's return could anchor the rotation amid a grueling schedule against AL West foes. Globe Life Field faithful, still buzzing from the 2023 title run, eye this as a potential pivot point in a season marred by pitching woes.